The Islands of the Bahamas
The Bahamas is considered one of the most popular vacation and travel destinations in the Caribbean. With its turquoise beaches and perfect weather, the Bahamas is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places in the world. While traveling there can be a little intimidating at first, Free Fun Guides has put together an easy-to-follow guide to help you with your trip to the Bahamas. We offer advice, help, and a neat and organized list to help you plan a trip to the Bahamas.
The Bahamas is a warm, tropical Caribbean destination, perfect for vacations, honeymoons, and family getaways. There is something for everyone in the Bahamas, sun, sand, water, food, nightlife, outdoor activities, casinos, live entertainment and so much more. People from all around the world travel to the Bahamas to experience the crystal clear water, white sandy beaches, and rich culture.
There is a large variety of hotels in the Bahamas that will meet the needs of just about any traveler. Most people traveling here will come for the tropical beaches, warm weather, and relaxing atmosphere. Hotels and resorts alike strive to create a relaxing and romantic atmosphere mixed in with plenty of activities, food, and entertainment.
New Providence
New Providence harbors Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, and is the most populated island out of all 700 islands that make up the Bahamas. This island is also the most visited island by tourists and is a safe place to enjoy your stay in the Bahamas.
Nassau is the city that makes up most of the island of New Providence and always has something for you to do. In Nassau, you can find Cable Beach, one of the most popular and famous beaches in the Bahamas. On the shoreline of Cable Beach, you can find all the major resorts as well as plenty of things to do that include, jet-skiing, snorkeling, and much more.
Just off the shore of New Providence is Paradise Island which has two bridges connecting it. This island harbors upscale resorts such as the Atlantis and is a very family-friendly part of New Providence.
Tourist Hotspots: Nassau, Cable Beach, Paradise Island, The Fish Fry
Grand Bahama Island
Grand Bahama Island has a lot to offer and is the second most populated island in the Bahamas. This island is a very well-known tourist destination because it is not as crowded as New Providence yet still offers the same experience that you would get in Nassau just in a more secluded setting.
Hiking, fine dining, and relaxing beaches are all offered by this island. Freeport (the largest city on the island) offers plenty of fun things to do such as snorkeling in beautiful reefs, amazing local food, and much more. This popular tourist destination is sure to give you the time of your life.
Tourist Hotspots: Freeport
Bimini
Bimini is a popular hotspot for well-known people and is an even bigger hotspot for those looking to hunt big game fish. Diving and snorkeling on Bimini’s reefs are also extremely popular. Underwater treasures and extremely good fishing await on this island. Resorts and lodging are available on this island as well.
Bimini is a tropical paradise consisting of two small islands – North Bimini and South Bimini. Located near the coast of Florida, Bimini is easily accessible by boat, plane, or ferry. With crystal clear waters, stunning coral reefs, and abundant wildlife, it’s an ideal place for aquatic adventures such as snorkeling, diving, and fishing. Above water, visitors can explore the quaint streets of Alice Town and experience an eclectic mix of Bahamian culture and history.
The Berry Islands
The Berry Islands consist of around 30 islands and are another great place to enjoy big game fishing in the Bahamas. Great Harbour is one of the most populated areas of the islands and is a hotspot for most local Bahamians.
Tourist Hotspots: Great Harbour Cay
Historically, the main settlements on the Berry Islands are Great Harbour Cay, Chub Cay, and Bullocks Harbour. Visitors can take part in several activities here, including fishing, sailing, scuba diving, and snorkeling. The calm waters around these islands make them ideal spots for swimming, so don’t forget your swimming trunks! Additionally, there are numerous hiking trails across the islands, offering insight into the unique culture and flora of this region.
Andros
Although Andros is two islands connected by canals and cays, its landmass makes it the largest island in the Bahamas. Andros is also home to the world’s third-largest barrier reef. This island is one of the best when it comes to snorkeling and diving and gives you an unreal experience when it comes to diving.
Of all the islands that make up the beautiful archipelago of the Bahamas, Andros is one of the most fascinating. Located in the Caribbean Sea, between Cuba and Florida, this large island is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant wildlife.
The island’s landscape is diverse, ranging from tropical jungles with lush vegetation to barren limestone flats that attract peacocks, wild boar, and iguanas. Visitors can also explore the many creeks and hidden bays that dot the shoreline. The coral reefs around Andros are a major attraction for divers, snorkelers, and kayakers.
The Abacos
This cluster of islands is mainly uninhabited and most boaters and yachters visit to find a secluded place to hang out. While some islands are inhabited this area of the Bahamas consists mainly of small islands that no one lives on. Geographically, the Abacos consist of two main islands – Great Abaco and Little Abaco – along with a series of smaller cays and keys that offer a variety of activities to explore.
Nature lovers can take a canoe trip through mangrove forests and observe unique wildlife or explore the uninhabited islands of the region. History buffs can tour Hope Town, home to one of the oldest lighthouses in the world, or visit Green Turtle Cay for its colonial-style architecture. Meanwhile, beachgoers will find endless opportunities to relax on the white sand shores of many of the islands while swimming and sunbathing. For those who want to get out on the water, The Abacos have plenty of options for sailing and fishing trips.
Tourist Hotspots: Elbow Cay
Eleuthera
Eleuthera is one of the most historic islands because it was the first island hit by settlers in 1648. This island is rich in history and is a favorite hotspot for Caribbean history lovers. The island also has great diving and sandy beaches for anyone who wishes to kick back and relax.
The 115-mile-long island offers plenty of activities and attractions for visitors. From snorkeling and diving to fishing and boating, Eleuthera has it all. The local cuisine is a unique mix of Bahamian flavors and Caribbean spices, making it a culinary delight for foodies.
Eleuthera also boasts some of the most stunning natural vistas in the country. This includes Cape Eleuthera Resort and Marina, which overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and is home to several exotic birds, including the flamingo. The island is also home to Preacher’s Cave, a historic site that provides an insight into Eleuthera’s history and culture.
Tourist Hotspots: Harbour Island
The Exuma Islands
The Exuma Islands are an archipelago of 365 islands located in the central Bahamas. Known for their pristine white-sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush vegetation, this collection of stunningly beautiful islands is a perfect spot to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The Exuma Islands offer a variety of activities that range from world-class snorkeling and scuba diving to luxurious resort amenities, shopping, and nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway or an exciting adventure, you will find plenty of options to choose from.
Some of the most popular activities on the Exuma Islands include swimming with pigs at Pig Beach, relaxing on pristine beaches, exploring remote bays and coves via boat tours, dining at some of the world’s best restaurants, and checking out nearby attractions such as the famous Tropic of Cancer beach in Little Exuma. Visitors who seek a bit of culture can explore many of the island’s historic sites or take in local music and art performances.
Tourist Hotspots: George Town
The Southern Bahamas
The Southern Bahamas are a glittering string of paradise, stretching from Mayaguana to the northern tip of Inagua. With stunning beaches, abundant wildlife, and crystal-clear waters, this region is a haven of relaxation and exploration. Boasting some of the most diverse marine life in the world, visitors can dive or snorkel among exotic creatures such as dolphins, sea turtles, and swimming pigs. Above land, hiking trails offer the opportunity to explore breathtakingly beautiful tropical forests and hidden coves.
These islands are known for great fishing and diving. Many people travel to these islands to experience how true Bahamians live. Keep in mind that most accommodations are not resort-style so be prepared when you travel to these islands.
Tourist Hotspots: San Salvador, Cat Island, Long Island, Crooked Island
Bahamas Islands Travel Basics
Nassau All-Inclusive Resorts
All-inclusive resorts in Nassau are waiting for your stay. These all-inclusive resorts include everything and are some of the best ways to have a good time in Nassau without having to worry about how much you are spending. You get one set price and everything is included. All-inclusive resorts in Nassau range from 100 to 800 dollars per night depending on how much is offered by the hotel so make sure you know what your spending limit is. Check out the listings below and find the perfect all-inclusive resort for you and your family. Our all-inclusive resort list for Nassau is guaranteed to find you the best all-inclusive resort.
Nassau Hotels
Since the Bahamas is one of the top tourist destinations in the Caribbean hotels in Nassau are abundant all along the beaches. Hotel prices in Nassau range from 100 dollars to 800 dollars per night depending on where you stay and how high-end the Nassau hotel is. We have listings for dozens of high-quality hotels and resorts throughout Nassau. Simply search through our listings and find the perfect match for you.
Resorts and Hotels in the Bahamas are plentiful. From the huge state-of-the-art resorts that feature some of the most luxurious accommodations to unknown hotels and condos that will give you the time of your life, The Bahamas has a place for you to stay that will fit your budget and needs
Nassau Bed And Breakfast
Bed and Breakfasts often only offer just that, a bed and a breakfast, and are usually a one-night stay. B&B; is generally extremely cheap making them a good option for most tourists. The Bahamas are full of bed and breakfasts and if you are looking for a small place to fall asleep for the night a Bed and Breakfast in Nassau is the perfect option for you. Rates are generally very cheap and usually range from 30 to 200 dollars per night. Check out our listings to find a perfect Nassau bed and breakfast for you and your family during your vacation in Nassau in the Bahamas.
Cruises to the Bahamas
Now, this is just a shortlist of the Cruise lines that frequent the Bahamas. Not all of them visit Nassau. Some visit Freeport, or some even go to a few different Cays, so be sure to check your list of ports closely before you book your trip. Nassau has many attractions from historic forts, parasailing, scuba diving, swimming with the dolphins, and relaxing on white sandy beaches.
- Royal Caribbean
- Princess Cruises
- Celebration Cruise Line
- Disney Cruise
- Celebrity Cruise
- Holland America
- Oceania Cruises
- MSC Cruises
- Regent Seven Seas
- Silversea
- Azamara Club Cruises
- Costa Cruises
So no matter what your favorite relaxing thing is to do, Nassau is sure to offer you a few choices for a day of fun on the island.
Important Travel Information
Nassau Self-Guided Boat Tours
Nassau self-guided boat tours are available all throughout the island. The boats are generally very simple and easy to use and directions to where you will be going are simple and easy. Self-guided boat tours in Nassau are among some of the most fun experiences you and your family could ever have. Be the captain of your own boat and navigate from island to island in a tour that you yourself get to be in charge of. Rates vary per vendor. Check out the listings below and get started on your very own self-guided boat tour in Nassau today!
Etiquette And How To Act
Generally, the Bahamian people are extremely friendly and polite. Humor is a big part of their culture and the Bahamian people love to laugh and joke around. That being said tourists should have no problem walking around native parts of the Bahamas and meeting new people as long as the tourists are being polite, humble, and respectful. Keep in mind as well that most Bahamians take religion very seriously. Sunday is usually a day of prayer and church-going and people dress their finest on this day. It is not uncommon for Bible references to be used in everyday language.
With all this being said staying polite and humble while having a sense of humor should be all you need when meeting with anyone from the Bahamas. Etiquette is much the same as in the United States or in the UK so if you are from these countries you shouldn’t have to worry about seeming too awkward.
What To Wear
The Bahamas are very tropical and the weather, for the most part, is sunny and hot. That being said dress for very warm weather. T-shirts, shorts, sunglasses, and sunscreen are advised. If you plan on swimming beachwear is advised. While the Bahamas are a tropical place you should keep a light jacket on you in case it starts to rain. Rain in the Bahamas comes on suddenly coming down in downpours and ending very quickly so having a light jacket if rain is expected is advised. If you are on business the people of the Bahamas observe western formalities so a suit, jacket, and tie are appropriate.
Staying Safe
The Bahamas are generally a very safe place to be. While crime does exist in some of the larger cities they very rarely involve tourists. However, that doesn’t mean crime doesn’t exist in the Bahamas. Stay in groups or near large groups of people, don’t accept drinks or rides from strangers, don’t travel alone through isolated areas, and consume alcohol in moderation. Stay smart and use street smarts you would use in any other city in the US in the Bahamas and you should be fine.
Bahamian Culture
Bahamian culture has been influenced by hundreds of years of slavery, exploration, colonization, and much more. Many of the residents live on the island of New Providence and are of West African descent. Slaves were originally brought from West Africa to the Bahamas to work on plantations. In 1834 slavery was abolished and many of the former slaves stayed on the islands and began trades.
Religion and Festivals are an important part of Bahamian culture. This is traced back to Puritan adventurers who traveled to the Bahamas to flee religious oppression. Celebration in the form of festivals can be traced back to the West African descent that includes music, flashy colors, and lots of fun. Festivals such as the Junkanoo, Fox Hill Festival, and the All Andros Crabfest are well known around the world. Parades, costumes, and food are a huge part of Bahamian festivals.
Getting There
Airlines
Most major airlines travel directly to the Bahamas. Air travel is the most frequently used way for you to get into the Bahamas and depending on where you live can be as short of a flight as 30 minutes. If an island you wish to go to doesn’t have an international airport you can arrive in an island that does and take another plane from island to island. Make sure to have your passport of a visa when going through airport security or you will not be allowed to travel.
Cruise Ships
Many cruise ships make stops in the Bahamas. Make sure to plan ahead and book the right cruise ship if you are thinking about stopping in the Bahamas. Most cruise ships stop in either Nassau or Freeport which are both good destination options if you want to go to the Bahamas. Make sure you research the perfect cruise for you that includes the right cabin and matches your budget perfectly.
Sailing and Yachting
A lot of people enjoy traveling in their own boat or yacht to the Bahamas. Since the islands are a mere 50 miles from the coast of Florida, a sailing trip to the Bahamas is a fun option for all. Before you do enter the Bahamas you must first know to follow these few guidelines. You must clear Customs and Immigration at a designated port of entry. As you sail into the port you must fly a yellow quarantine flag to notify that you have not officially been admitted yet. Every passenger after that must show proof of citizenship and a passport before they are officially entered into the Bahamas and an entry fee is required depending on the size of your boat.
Getting Around
Bikes and Mopeds
Bikes and mopeds are a cheap and inexpensive way to travel around the Bahamas. You can pick up a moped for around 40 dollars per day (plus a deposit in the event something happens to the bike) and ride around in style. However, travelers should be extremely cautious when driving around on mopeds. Driving is on the left side of the road and if you are inexperienced with driving a scooter or with the driving style of the Bahamians especially in the city it can be extremely dangerous.
Buses
Buses in the Bahamas serve the larger cities such as Freeport and Nassau. Using a bus is probably the cheapest way to travel in the Bahamas. The only problem is that they have predesignated stops and only service the cities which is a problem if you are traveling somewhere outside of the city. Buses generally charge between 75 cents and 3 dollars depending on how long your bus ride is. Buses do not run at night and there is no specific schedule for when they will be at their stop. If you need to be somewhere in a hurry it is recommended that you take a taxi.
Rental Cars
While rental car agencies are often times hard to find they are generally reliable and offer good quality cars. If you have little or no experience with driving in the Bahamas driving yourself is not recommended. City driving is congested and driving is on the left side of the road. If you do have experience and want to rent car rates usually start around 60 dollars. Most rental car agencies require the driver to be between 21 and 25 years old with a valid international driver’s license.
Ferries
Ferries are a good way to travel from island to island. Government-run ferries are available to use if you need to travel to major ports on different islands. Also, commercial ferries for vacationers who want to experience the islands are available. Rates can run between 20 and 60 dollars depending on where you are going.